Dixon happy with X Factor headlines

Alesha Dixon is pleased The X Factor has had more controversy this year than Strictly Come Dancing

Alesha Dixon has admitted she is pleased The X Factor has seen more controversy this year than Strictly Come Dancing.

The Radio singer was the subject of debate last year when she was announced as a new member of the Strictly judging panel, and while Ann Widdecombe's continued involvement in the BBC One show has hit the headlines this year, The X Factor has had to contend with issues such as Chloe Mafia denying cocaine use and prostitution, Gamu Nhengu failing to make it through to the final 12, Wagner's success on the live finals and more recently the revelation that Katie Waissel's grandmother is a porn star.

Alesha, whose new album The Entertainer is out on Monday, said: "X Factor has just been a circus this year and I've enjoyed watching it. It never ceases to surprise me, just the drama that goes with that show.

"I'm so glad that all the controversy's over that side and Strictly's kind of getting away with nothing. For me, that's brilliant."

Alesha revealed she was a fan of Rebecca Ferguson and Matt Cardle, but added that she got irritated by judges Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh, Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue bickering.

"I'm a big fan of Rebecca - I think she's like a modern-day Sade. I think that Matt is wonderful as well. Apart from the judges arguing with each other, which is annoying, I've really enjoyed the series," she added.